Christchurch Airport has just re-opened

Christchurch Airport has just re-opened.

This decision follows full systematic assessment of
runways, navigation systems and buildings, after this afternoon's
earthquake and aftershocks. Chief Executive Jim Boult says
there has been no damage to the airport's runways, which are now
open for landings and departures.

Mr Boult says the terminal is open and he expects flight
operations to re-commence about 6pm. "We expect there will be
significant delays and some flight cancellations. It's likely to be
well into tomorrow before the backlog is cleared," he says. "People
should check with their airlines before going to the
airport." Mr Boult says the airport was safely evacuated after
the first earthquake and the people in the terminal are safe and
well, being cared for by airport staff.